Inclement weather threatens to derail Australia’s bid

After rain and poor visibility on the first two days, Friday's play was completely impossible due to persistent and occasionally strong rain. Usman Khawaja was left stranded on his overnight score of 195 and dangerously close to scoring his first double-century. It prevented Australia from adding to its impressive first-innings tally of 475-4.

Australia must now choose how many runs it needs and how much time it needs to bowl out South Africa twice in the two days that remain on a pitch that isn't yet providing the expected support for the spinners in order to win. After the play was suspended on the possibility of being left stranded on 195, Khawaja observed, "I think it'd be quite cruel if he (skipper Pat Cummins) declared straight away." We could go out there and immediately score a few more runs or we could declare fairly soon, but I don't believe that's going to happen.